Audition Preparation

The Department of Theatre and Dance requires an audition for students applying to the B.F.A. in Acting.

The acting faculty offers the following advice as you prepare for your UT Austin audition:

Your audition should consist of two contrasting pieces totaling no more than two minutes. The time will start after your introduction, which should consist of your name, the name of the characters and the plays your selections are from.

Dress professionally and comfortably.

A chair will be provided for you, but please avoid costume pieces and props.

When speaking to an imaginary scene partner, pick a spot above the auditor’s heads rather than using them as your scene partners.

When selecting your pieces, look for material that is suitable for you, roles that you identify with, or roles that you could conceivably be cast as and perform. Try to avoid extreme character types that can become two-dimensional caricatures.

A sense of humor is appreciated and encouraged, but do not select a piece that is a stand-up comedy routine rather than about a human relationship.

It is usually best to stick to contemporary realism in the selection of your material.

Make sure that your audition is thoroughly rehearsed and coached and don’t forget to rehearse your introduction as well.

Movement should be appropriate for whatever is going on between you and your imaginary scene partner.

Make sure that you are aware of what the difference is between the two characterizations so that both pieces don’t look the same. Clearly delineate between the two pieces.

Remember that an audition is a time to do that which you love to do: act.Try to relax and enjoy auditioning, and remember that you are performing for people who root for your success.

Here are some of the things that acting faculty look for in an audition:

Contrast in pieces to show actor’s range.

A sense of vocal & physical comfort, skill, and expressiveness.

Whether the monologue is serious or comedic, it is actually a scene between you and another human being. We want to see you, the actor, engaged and invested in a way that is personally meaningful to him/her. In other words, we want to see the humanity of the piece and the personal heart and soul of the actor revealed in the audition. Genuine listening & reacting to your imaginary partner creates a sense of “truth” in acting –versus—“performing.”

Flexibility and a sense of openness to be a good collaborator and citizen of the department.

CREATIVE IMAGINATION. Acting allows us to dig into those parts of ourselves that we don’t get to use everyday—so dig deep. Be imaginative in your acting choices.